When Jacob, the son of Amber and Rob Hall, fell ill with a sinus infection on February 21, they initially treated him with common home remedies. Little did they anticipate that within a week, the teenager from Thompson Falls would be undergoing urgent brain surgery.
Amber expressed her admiration for Jacob, describing him as an exceptional child who continues to impress her daily, even during his hospital stay at Logan Health Children’s Hospital.
Following the home treatments, including a sinus flush and cold medication, Jacob was taken to the doctor on February 26 and prescribed antibiotics after a wrestling tournament weigh-in on the following day revealed a significant 10-pound weight loss.
Despite teasing Jacob about potentially trying to drop to a lower weight class for wrestling, Amber recounted how his condition deteriorated rapidly, leading to a night where he couldn’t eat at all.
While complications from sinus infections such as intracranial extension are uncommon, a recent article in the Therapeutic Advances in Allergy and Rhinology Journal highlighted the decreasing frequency of such severe outcomes due to advancements in medical treatments and diagnostic techniques.
However, Jacob, at 13 years old, faced life-threatening complications as the sinus infection progressed, resulting in meningitis, blood clots, and the discovery of an abscess on his brain through a CT scan at the emergency room.
Transported to Logan Health Children’s Hospital in Kalispell, Jacob underwent immediate brain surgery followed by a second procedure that same night, with a third surgery scheduled for the following day.
The Hall family made a sudden decision to stay by Jacob’s side throughout his hospitalization, leaving with only the clothes on their backs. According to a GoFundMe page created to support Jacob’s medical expenses, the medical team anticipates a hospital stay of two to three weeks, followed by an undetermined period of IV antibiotics and a recovery timeline of up to six months.
Amidst the unpredictable fluctuations in Jacob’s condition, his parents highlighted the dedicated care provided by the hospital staff, who continuously update them on his progress and explain complex medical terms in layman’s language.
Described as a diligent and resilient individual, Jacob is an active participant in wrestling, football, basketball, and derby racing, where he achieved first place in the youth division at a recent fair. Additionally, he enjoys farming activities and caring for the family’s animals.
While Jacob’s siblings remain concerned back home in Thompson Falls, his parents have been deeply touched by the outpouring of support from the community, including donations for essential items like an electric recliner to aid Jacob during his recovery.
As the family navigates this challenging journey, they express gratitude for the assistance received from various sources, ranging from practical help with household chores to emotional support and financial contributions. Despite their initial reluctance to accept help, they acknowledge the importance of unity during this trying time.
With plans to temporarily step away from work to care for Jacob, the Hall family faces an uncertain path ahead but remains resilient with the unwavering support of their loved ones and community members rallying behind them in solidarity.